Can You Enjoy Wine While Social Distancing?

Remember when people used to say that you were an alcoholic if you drank alone? Happily (or sadly), with social distancing, I don’t think people are saying that anymore. For those of us who enjoy wine, a glass or two every night might be just what the doctor is ordering. Okay, perhaps not Anthony Fauci. But maybe other doctors. So the big question is: Can you enjoy wine while social distancing. Are there any rules to follow?

Overcoming Puritanical Taboos

As much as we love alcohol, and wine in particular, we have to admit that overuse can be very problematic, resulting in health problems, accidents, relationship challenges and much more. We also have to acknowledge that a number of religious groups frown upon the consumption of alcohol, which has had a negative impact beyond those groups. According to the New York Times, “The underlying social attitudes…all underscore the Puritanical notion that drinking alcohol, regardless of the reason, is wrong. They suggest that the whole point of drinking is self-medication in one form or another, whether for heartache or ambient anxiety. And if you do it by yourself, you face a Pandora’s box full of consequences.”

In the Age of Social Distancing

Truth be told, wine is incredibly fun to do with other people. Communally hearing the popping of the cork. Toasting. Comparing tasting notes. Enjoying wine with special dishes. But just because we’re faced with social distancing doesn’t mean we need to forgo good food and good wine. In fact, we might need these things more than ever. And the good news is with modern technology you can create virtual community – with Facetime or Zoom or another app.

The Upside of Alcohol Consumption

Forbes says “there’s little evidence that moderate alcohol consumption…will adversely affect your immune system. In fact, studies have suggested that moderate alcohol consumption can be associated with positive psychological benefits…This includes reduced stress, tension, and self-consciousness and increased overall affective expression…There are also correlations with increased happiness, euphoria, and conviviality. Studies have not shown though whether you are more or less likely to use the word ‘conviviality’ while drinking in moderation.”

Managing Your Leftover Wine

If you’re drinking by yourself, you will undoubtedly have leftover wine. Not a problem. Put the cork back in the bottle (usually in the opposite way it came out) and put the bottle in the fridge. Your wine will taste as good as new for at least three days, if not a little longer, especially if it’s a quality wine.

I hope you’re hanging in there during this time of social distancing. If you have any good stories to share about how you’re enjoying wine right now, please share them with us. Cheers!